News 9 is launching a new series, "Project Success," to highlight schools that have cut their dropout rates. Statewide, the rate has fallen from 2.5 percent in 2008 to 1.19 percent in the 2010-2011 school year.

Mascenic Regional High School in New Ipswich has cut its rate from more than 2 percent to zero percent over the past three years.

"Everything that you can possibly think about that goes into a school has been revamped," said Principal Trevor Courtney.

Mascenic Regional has been named high school of the year and has maintained its zero percent dropout rate for two consecutive years.

"To do that, you really need to go beyond that 9-to-5 mentality," Courtney said. "You have to have class times where you sit down with the individual students and talk about their concerns."

The school has implemented flexible teaching options and a schedule that lengthens the school day by 22 minutes, allowing for more one-on-one time.

"They are always willing to help you, and it's easy to find something that will be perfect for you and the fit you want," said junior Shawn Thibault.

Thibault said he has aspirations to go to Georgetown University, New York University or Harvard University. He said Mascenic Regional has given him the confidence he needs.

"It gives you that feeling of, 'I am home. I am safe and secure.' But at the same time, 'I can do it. I can succeed,'" Thibault said.

Guidance counselors make it a point to know each student personally.

"So we are fortunate in that regard, that we can really follow each student and tailor their future plans and, in some cases, tailor their curriculum to get them to the finish line," said guidance counselor Michael Bryant.

"There's different needs for the different kids," said guidance counselor Cathy Proulx. "And some want to leave because they are struggling. Some want to leave because they want to get on with their life. We talk to everyone and find out which is the best plan for each individual."

School officials said they have learned that traditional classroom teaching doesn't work for everyone. A diverse curriculum is also important.

In the automotive program, students repair cars belonging to people in town, and all their work can be watched online.

The Internet also allows students to learn Mandarin Chinese and Latin.

Off-campus students can take part in firefighting and building trades, along with extended learning opportunities with local businesses.

"We have all these different students that are trying to get through one little door," Courtney said. "Let's make more doors, try to open that up, breathe some more life into the curriculum."

Every student is required to apply to a college, and this year, every senior was accepted. Their names are pinned on the school's wall with pride.

"I like to be able to say Mascenic is where I went to school. It's where I am going and where I am working to be a better person, as well as a better student," Thibault said. "It's a great school."

For questions about the state’s dropout prevention initiatives, contact Susan Randall at Susan.Randall@doe.nh.gov or 603-271-3809.